Exeter Community Initiatives is a local charity helping people facing inequality, homelessness and coping on a low income get their lives back on track. We involve people in community projects to improve their wellbeing, increase their sense of belonging and give them the skills to succeed in life. We take a proactive approach to finding practical solutions to tackle social problems, developing new ideas and initiatives. We provide 1:1 and group activities for people with experience of homelessness, or in recovery, or who have mental health issues. We also work with children and families.

Why the community needs us

ECI is not a single issue charity. We attempt to address needs that may not be met elsewhere. We work with people at times in their lives when they are in crisis, recovery or transition. Our current projects include: Transitions - providing volunteer mentor support for those who are vulnerable or marginalised, to help them maintain their independence; and, Ripple - providing meaningful activity and creative opportunities for those who are in recovery or have had experience of homelessness.

Our impact on the community

Last year we helped 6,042 people in Exeter and Devon. This included family support for 207 families, and helping 176 adults dealing with social isolation, debt and housing issues. We enabled a further 5,657 people access group activities and workshops. Alongside our paid staff, our 108 volunteers gave 5,996 hours of their own time to support our projects.

Volunteers needed

We have a diverse range of volunteering opportunities from customer service in our childrens' charity shop to supporting isolated and vulnerable adults to maintain independent living.